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Council briefing details salt inventory and contract limits ahead of winter storms
Summary
Council members were told the city has about 550 tons in storage, a 350-ton order due in roughly two weeks and contract rules that allow purchases up to 140% of the estimated quantity (with a possible extension to 160% pending supplier agreement).
At a Brooklyn City Council public-works briefing, the chair reported the city currently has approximately 550 tons of road salt in its storage dome and placed an additional order for 350 tons on Feb. 3, which officials do not expect to arrive for roughly two weeks. The chair said the combined supply would leave the city with about 900 tons on hand for the remainder of the winter under current deliveries.
The chair explained that the city participates in a consortium salt contract that runs Nov. 1, 2025, through Oct. 31, 2026. Under the contract, the city must plan to use at least 80% of an estimated quantity (the chair used 2,400 tons as an example, producing an 80% usage obligation of 1,920 tons). The chair added the contract allows purchases up to 140% of the estimate (3,360 tons in the example) and that a supplier such as Cargill could—if it agrees—extend that cap to 160%, but no such confirmation had been received.
Officials also discussed supplier availability: Morton, Compass and National Salt were reported not to be taking new customers, increasing reliance on current contract partners. The chair reviewed recent seasonal usage figures to show variability and planning challenges, saying recent seasons ranged from roughly 1,400 to 3,300 tons, and that the current year was on the high end at about 3,300 tons.
Council members were told the service department will prioritize main roads, hills and bridges for salting; side streets will be plowed and salted as conditions permit. The chair said the city had ordered a new salt truck as part of capital planning; the vehicle is expected to arrive in spring 2027.
The briefing did not include a formal vote or new procurement action; staff said they will proceed with purchases and bids consistent with board-of-control approvals and the existing contract.
